The holiday season is almost here, and with it comes a brand-new romantic comedy that promises warmth, laughter, and just the right amount of festive mischief. My Secret Santa, directed by Mike Rohl (known for The Princess Switch), brings together romance, humor, and heartfelt holiday spirit in a story about family, dreams, and unexpected love.
Starring Alexandra Breckenridge (from Virgin River) and Ryan Eggold (New Amsterdam), the film is set in the snow-covered beauty of Sun Peaks ski resort — a perfect backdrop for a Christmas love story filled with laughter, hope, and the magic of second chances.
A Mother’s Determined Mission
At the heart of My Secret Santa is Taylor, a single mother determined to make her daughter’s dream come true. Her little girl has been selected for an elite snowboarding camp at the luxurious Sun Peaks resort — but there’s just one problem: the camp is expensive, and Taylor’s finances are tight.
Refusing to disappoint her daughter, Taylor hatches a daring plan. She applies for a seasonal job at Sun Peaks and lands a position as the resort’s Santa Claus. The twist? To get the job, she has to disguise herself as a man.
In a full Santa suit and a thick white beard, Taylor steps into a role that’s both hilarious and heartwarming. What begins as a simple plan to earn money soon becomes a journey of self-discovery and unexpected romance.
Enter Matthew: The Manager Who Sees Through the Disguise
Everything seems to go according to Taylor’s plan — until she meets Matthew, the charming and perceptive resort manager played by Ryan Eggold. Matthew is friendly, kind, and professional, but there’s one thing he can’t quite figure out — there’s something unusual about this new Santa.
As Taylor and Matthew interact, the sparks begin to fly. Despite her disguise, Taylor can’t help but feel drawn to him. Their conversations are filled with wit and warmth, and slowly, the line between her secret identity and real emotions starts to blur.
Matthew’s curiosity deepens as he notices that this Santa seems to know an awful lot about kids, parenting, and empathy — far more than any temporary hire should. When the truth begins to unravel, so do both their carefully guarded hearts.
A Holiday Tale of Love, Identity, and Hope
At its core, My Secret Santa isn’t just a Christmas comedy — it’s a story about identity and the lengths a parent will go for love. Taylor’s disguise as Santa isn’t simply for laughs; it’s symbolic of the masks people wear to protect themselves or provide for those they love.
As she balances her job, her secret, and her growing affection for Matthew, Taylor learns to rediscover her own dreams — dreams she had buried under years of responsibility and sacrifice.
Her daughter’s snowboarding ambition mirrors Taylor’s journey: both are reaching for something that feels just out of reach, yet worth every ounce of effort. The story beautifully blends humor with emotional depth, reminding audiences that Christmas isn’t just about gifts — it’s about giving your best to the people who matter most.
Behind the Magic: Mike Rohl’s Signature Festive Touch
Director Mike Rohl, who brought us the popular The Princess Switch franchise, brings his signature charm to My Secret Santa. Known for his ability to blend romance, humor, and Christmas nostalgia, Rohl creates a story that’s both heartwarming and full of festive sparkle.
Under his direction, the snowy landscapes of Sun Peaks come alive with twinkling lights, cozy firesides, and community warmth. The film feels like a postcard from a perfect winter holiday — yet beneath its glossy surface lies a meaningful exploration of courage, truth, and second chances.
Alexandra Breckenridge shines in her dual role as a devoted mom and a hilariously disguised Santa. Her comedic timing and emotional depth make Taylor instantly relatable. Meanwhile, Ryan Eggold brings a grounded charm to Matthew, creating the kind of romantic tension that makes every scene feel magical.
Themes That Resonate Beyond the Holidays
While My Secret Santa is wrapped in holiday cheer, its themes resonate year-round. It explores selflessness, perseverance, and the magic of rediscovering joy when life feels weighed down by responsibility.
The film celebrates working parents, especially single mothers who go above and beyond for their children. It also highlights the importance of community, friendship, and finding love when you least expect it — even if you’re hiding behind a Santa beard.
Taylor’s journey is both funny and moving. Her awkward encounters while trying to maintain her disguise bring genuine laughs, but it’s the emotional vulnerability beneath her mask that makes the story memorable.
By the time Matthew discovers her secret, the audience will be rooting not just for their romance but for Taylor’s triumph — as a woman who dared to chase her dreams again.
A New Holiday Classic in the Making
Every Christmas season brings new contenders for the “holiday classic” title, and My Secret Santa is shaping up to be one of this year’s strongest. It has all the right ingredients: a heartfelt story, comedic moments, charming leads, and a reminder that love often arrives in the most unexpected ways.
With its mix of laughter, romance, and family-driven emotion, My Secret Santa is perfect for anyone who loves festive movies with a twist. Whether you’re watching with family or cuddled up with a cup of cocoa, this film promises to bring the magic of Christmas right into your home.
When and Where to Watch
My Secret Santa will debut this holiday season, just in time for cozy nights, Christmas trees, and the smell of gingerbread in the air. Keep an eye on your favorite streaming platform for the official release date and trailer.
So get ready to laugh, cry, and fall in love with the spirit of giving — because sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart.